A Windows 8 Glossary

Microsoft’s new operating system introduces several new terms and concepts that go with them. Here’s a primer.

Microsoft didn't just introduce a new operating system this week. It also introduced a new terminology to go with the concepts the OS embraces. Most people following Windows 8 by now have heard the term Metro (even though Microsoft no longer uses this term), but there are a lot more behind that. The operating system also brings terms from the mobile world, like "lock screen," though that's pretty self explanatory. But what about things like "Charms" and "Contracts"?

Some of the new terms directly affect consumer users, while others are probably only of interest to developers and IT personnel. WinRT is probably not something Aunt Edna needs to know about, but I'm sure she might be interested in knowing the difference between Metro and Desktop-style apps. Of course, it's very possible to use the new operating system without having to know the terms for each element. Here at PCMag.com, we think you want in on these details.

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Contracts

Contracts

Windows 8’s Metro-style apps will be able to exchange information among one another. How? Through "contracts." Apps will be able to use Windows features like Share and Search, but third-party developers will be able to offer shared data and search capabilities, too. Think of the way a social network app could share with a photo app for an idea of how this can work.